3 Retail Stocks to Check Out Now

These companies stand to gain from increased consumer spending

While consumer spending was a big uncertainty a few months ago thanks to hangover from the “fiscal cliff” debacle and payroll tax increase, there are a number of improving data points that suggest spending is quite strong.

As the American economy continues to get its act together, these numbers will continue to move higher, too … and that means investors looking to play the retail sector should load up on related stocks sooner rather than later.

As consumers continue to increase spending, a strong back-to-school shopping season coupled with a great holiday run could push a number of retail investments sky-high.

Here are five such picks to consider now before the seasonal shopping spree kicks off in the months ahead: